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The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views

Photo gallery for The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views

Stargazing deck and hot tub
Room
Property grounds
Dining area
Den has a wood burning stove

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Pool

Explore the area

Map
Yucca Valley, CA
  • Noah Purifoy Foundation
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Joshua Tree Visitor Center
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Twentynine Palms, CA (TNP)
    ‪46 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Double Futons

Office 1

1 Single Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Office
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Dining Area

About this property

The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views

• Welcome to The Ocotillo! A slight-filled, spacious house and art gallery set on 2.5 acres with a private, remote feel just 20 mins from Joshua Tree National Park
• Witness abundant nature and epic 100 mile sunrise and sunset views
• Stargazing deck with BBQ, Hot Tub, Firepit, and zero light pollution providing unparalleled view of the night sky
• Stylishly designed inside and out with mid-century and vintage furniture, textiles, ceramics and artwork
• Filled with top amenities
• Miles of hiking trails around the property
• EV charger
• @theocotillojoshuatree theocotillojoshuatree dot com


Situated on "The Mesa", one of the high desert's most desirable locations surrounded by 100 mile vistas, The Ocotillo is a place that provides a sense of peace and relaxation as soon as you arrive. This unique location continues to be a source of inspiration for those that stay for vacations and creative retreats, as well as the artists that participate in the summer resident program - of which a selection of artwork from the residencies can be found hanging in the house for guests to enjoy! See theocotillojoshuatree dot com for more details. The property is beautifully designed, centrally located for all the major high desert attractions and consists of a series of indoor and outdoor spaces to relax, socialize, and work in as follows:

FAMILY/DINING ROOM: Extensive views, access to deck and hot tub, large reclaimed wood dining table comfortably seating 8, corner sofa, record player

DEN: 2 Cozy nook with daybeds, wood burning stove for chilly evenings

STUDY: Dedicated room with a large desk, books, games, daybed and sunset view.

KITCHEN: Well appointed with everything you will need to prep and cook and an ample island to gather and socialize at. Stove/oven with airfryer, coffee grinder, french press, blender, toaster, dishwasher, tea kettle etc.

BEDROOMS: Each bedroom has a queen sized bed and one has a softer mattress while the other has a firm mattress to accommodate preferences. 100% Linen sheets, shelves and hanging space

EXTERIOR: Large yoga deck, yoga mats, hot tub with expanded horizon views filled with Joshua Trees, sun-shaded dining area, cool water outdoor shower and cowboy tub for hot days (summer season May- Sept), fire pit for chilly evenings, 2.5 acre perimeter fenced property filled desert nature and wildlife

ART GALLERY: Access to art exhibition, 1/2 bathroom, kitchenette. The next exhibition will open Spring 25. See artwork from previous shows in the main house. See theocotillojoshuatree dotcom for details

Note that to conserve water in the dry desert environment, the cowboy tub pool is operational only during the hot months, May through October. The hot tub is operational all year round.

The Ocotillo is a Certified Humane property meaning that no rodenticides or pesticides are used on site and all cleaning products are biodegradable.

San Bernardino County Short Term Rental Permit #CESTRP-2020-00611

Property manager

Lara Hoad
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
All breakages must be reported and paid for by the guest

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number CESTRP-2020-00611

About the area

Yucca Valley

Located in Yucca Valley, this holiday home is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Joshua Tree National Park and Sand to Snow National Monument, while Noah Purifoy Foundation and Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Yucca Valley, CA

What's nearby

  • Noah Purifoy Foundation - 24 min drive - 8.6 km
  • Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum - 26 min drive - 10.0 km
  • Joshua Tree Visitor Center - 30 min drive - 19.5 km
  • Joshua Tree Courthouse - 33 min drive - 23.0 km
  • Pioneertown - 38 min drive - 27.1 km

Getting around

  • Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) - 68 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪La Copine - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Giant Rock Meeting Room - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪5 Pizza Place - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Mojave Pizza - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Castle Inn - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Ocotillo - Secluded Stargazing, Hiking, Hot Tub w/ Stunning Views located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is 5.3 mi (8.5 km) from Noah Purifoy Foundation and within 12 miles (20 km) of Noah Purifoy's Outdoor sculpture Museum and Yucca Valley Community Park. Sand to Snow National Monument and Hi-Desert Nature Museum are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Girls' Weekend
The property is located a mile down a dirt road (we were able to easily navigate in sedans), which offers the perfect balance of seclusion and access to the park and nightlife of Joshua Tree. The home was thoughtfully furnished and the hot tub overlooking the landscape was perfect. Would re-book in a heartbeat!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private Slice Of Joshua Tree
Amazing property that delivers a private spot to enjoy the beauty of the area. The accommodations were excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Heidi O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique secluded desert home experience
The home is very unique and we thought it very cool that it is often used as an artists retreat. Make sure you check spam for the detailed check in information. We are glad we arrived in the daylight as you must take an unmarked dirt road to get there. The home is very open with window coverings only in the bedrooms so prepare for that. Usually when I travel to new places I like to close myself in at night so that felt a bit uncomfortable for me to not be able to draw any blinds/curtains etc especially as the property is very isolated save a neighbor separated by chain link fence. We tried the hot tub but unfortunately the water was set at too chilly a temperature to enjoy. I imagine if you came during the hot time of year, it would feel great, but there was still snow in the mountains and it only got up to the mid 50’s while we were there. The location had great access to Joshua Tree and that’s what we came for. Additionally it was a quick few minute drive to town for shopping dining etc. Make sure to hit the snake bite for a burger and beverage while in town. Very cool unique open large peaceful spot! Very comfy beds and linens.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

ben b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Enjoyed the time and experience. Awesome sunser
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Artistic stay in the high desert
We really enjoyed our stay at the Ocotillo. Highlights for us were star gazing, sunrises, and the comfortable beds. The Joshua Trees on the property and in the surrounding area are great too. There are washboarded dirt roads required to get to the property, but we didn't have any difficulty with them in an AWD sedan.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

William R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cool Spot
Great place very clean
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cameron T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Artful desert abode
Remote high desert getaway, artfully appointed.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay - Book It!
Fantastic. Amazing. Everything we'd hoped for. Terrific on every level. Loved the design & decor. Lara was very helpful and responsive. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Svetlana W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay when visiting Joshua tree NP
Comfy place with restful atmosphere. Enjoyed our time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place and very rustic
We had a great stay here. 10/10 - everything was clean, lots of kitchen items, and your basic amenities. The road getting there was a bit rough, but this was communicated by the host. The property was large, and the house itself was very open and clean. Very great for pictures and to feel solitude. With all thay said, it wasn't our cup of tea. Most outside windows in the common areas dont have blinds/curtains so during the day, it let in lots of beautiful natural light which we loved, but we preferred more privacy at night. The bedrooms however DO have blinds so it was nice and dark when we slept. Again- nothing wrong with the propery and I understand why this place is rated so highly. This was just our preference. We would still recommend it other friends of ours because it is a really cool place.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded Getaway
Octotillo was a great place to getaway. Lara's instructions were clear and concise. The house is tucked away north of Joshua Tree National Park and was everything you could ask for in a vacation destination. The property has great views of the night sky and we were able to see a few meteors. House was fairly clean and the beds comfortable. The firepit was welcoming and Literally off the beaten path and away far from the maddening crowds. Getting there requires navigating unpaved roads but it's manageable in a tiny sedan in the day time. Their is a neighboring house that we didn't see anyone at. It's a quiet place to get your mind away from work and enjoy the outdoors. Would definitely come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lori P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded Honeymoon Getaway
We were here for our honeymoon. It was secluded,
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

John T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Star gazing trip
Very nice, rural place. Great to star gaze from hot tub!!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ericka H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a cool place to stay!!!
I cannot wait to go back!!! The property itself is beautiful, and somewhat remote. There is so much to see!! Wonderful stay!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Spencer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome getaway
The house and property are exactly as shown, and the views are amazing!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stargazing
Really enjoyed sitting in the hot tub and gazing at the stars. This is a wonderful rental with no complaints.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jaimi Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
One of Our Favorite Places to Getaway From It All
The Ocotillo is such a wonderful place to get away. It's remote, beautiful and peaceful. This is the second time we've stayed at the Ocotillo and we will likely return. Lara, the owner, is lovely and helpful. The home is on what seems to be a perfectly situated corner of Yucca Valley - with breathtaking views of the mountains and Joshua trees. If you need a break from the daily grind, this is the place . . .
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joseph W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful night at Ocotillo
The cottage was exactly as shown on the listing. Great styling! Clean! It had all the amenities one would want in a vacation. It was everything I wanted for a night of solitude in the desert.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nick C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stunning beauty in the desert
We spent two nights at the Ocotillo in August. First of all, the location is gorgeous...miles of untouched desert stretch out from the house and you can hike or run to your heart's content. The house itself is so beautifully appointed and full of character, from the furniture to the artwork to the rooms themselves. That said it is absolutely practical for the location...the smooth, poured concrete floors are great in such a sandy place, and, like the desert itself, the house is filled with a kind of rugged beauty. The exterior features many spots to take in the scenery, enjoy a book or cool off in the cowboy tub. At night, the stars overhead are incredibly clear and the best place to take them in is from the hot tub. If you love the outdoors, the beauty of the natural world and have ever longed to experience the magic of the desert, this is the place for you. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Ocotillo
Stayed one night on a road trip. Enjoyed stay.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

alessandra a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Così lontano così vicino
Ai confini del mondo dentro se stessi. C'è ogni cosa di cui hai bisogno, in un contesto luminoso. Avevamo qualche timore per il caldo (agosto), ma l'assenza di umidità rende il soggiorno eccellente
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenna M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing!!!!!
This property is amazing! The house was beautiful and soaking in the hot tub while gazing at the stars was pure magic💫
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Meredith W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay in the desert
Great property out in the desert conveniently located not far from Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley. Great base to explore JTNP and surrounding area. House is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with all you need. Stargazing from the hot tub during the evening is a must! Lots of wildlife nearby is an added bonus. Highly recommended!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeremy O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place to stay
Good place to stay near Joshua Tree. Plenty of fun things to explore in the area. The hot tub was also a nice benefit.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Very nice property, quite secluded and peaceful. Had a great stay
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Lara Hoad

Host profile image
Hello, I'm Lara. I'm an architect originally from London but have lived in Los Angeles, California for many years and also own The Ocotillo llocated in Joshua Tree. My favorite thing to do is to escape to the desert to immerse myself in nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life. I have traveled the world many times over and can honestly say that Joshua Tree National Park and surrounding area is one of the most magical places on the planet. I absolutely love spending time there and it brings me so much joy to be able to open the house for others to enjoy too.

Why they chose this property

The neighborhood is tucked away up on the mesa and although it feels remote it is only a short drive into town and centrally located for all best desert attractions. Being a mile on a dirt road, it is very peaceful with an abundance of wildlife. The evenings are filled with hooting owls, bats and the occasional distant pack of howling coyotes. There are a handful of neighbors to one side of the property and the other side is vast open desert with hiking trails that stretch for miles and distant mountain views.

What makes this property unique

The Ocotillo is a cherished desert retreat and I have put so much love into it by filling it with unique objects and furniture that have been collected over the years. The main house is open plan and spacious with views from each room and it continues to be used as a place of inspiration for those that vacation there as well as the artists who take part in the annual residency program. In the adjacent building you will find the art gallery which guests will have private access to during their stay. The next show will open in May 2025. The house and gallery sits on a 2.5 acre perimeter fenced property filled with Joshua Trees, Mesquite and Palo Verde trees and is surrounded on three sides by vast open areas of government land. Nature is abundant with a variety of birds and animals that live on and around the property including, chipmunks, jackrabbits, owls, road runners and woodpeckers. Centrally located for access to all the high desert attractions including Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy and Harriets, Pioneer Town, La Copine and The Integratron. All communication will be directly with Lara Hoad the owner and designer of The Ocotillo house and gallery to ensure a personal experience. There are no remote management companies or third party hosts.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests